By Augustine Akpovwonvwon Akanigha
Ugbomro, Delta State — A strong call for unity resonated across the country home of the Great Akanigha Family in Ugbomro, Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State, as Dr. Andrew Akanigha formally assumed office as the new Head of the Akanigha Dynasty.
The historic event took place during an extraordinary family conclave held on Saturday, May 9, 2026, marking a significant transition in the leadership of the revered family.
Dr. Akanigha, a retired Permanent Secretary and seasoned administrator, brings decades of distinguished public service experience to his new role. His career dates back to the old Bendel State before the creation of Delta State, where he played pioneering roles in the Directorate of Information under the Delta State Ministry of Information.
He also served as Director-General of the Delta State Liaison Offices in Lagos and Abuja before being appointed as one of the state’s pioneer Permanent Secretaries. During his career, he served in key positions, including Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Works and the Delta State Cabinet Office, where he retired from active service. He was later reappointed as the Third Member of the Board of the Delta State Civil Service Commission.
In his inaugural address, Dr. Akanigha stressed the need to preserve the enduring legacy of Great Chief J.K. Akanigha, the first Unuevworo of Ugbomro. He reminded family members that the core values of the Akanigha Dynasty — love, unity, and discipline — remain the foundation of their heritage and must continue to guide future generations.
He paid glowing tribute to his late elder brother and predecessor, Chief Dr. Michael Akanigha, a former lecturer at Delta State University, Abraka, praising his unwavering commitment to the ideals and progress of the dynasty.
According to him, the late Chief Dr. Michael Akanigha would be greatly missed for his wisdom, leadership, and devotion to family unity. He also extended heartfelt condolences to the deceased’s wife, Mrs. Polo Akanigha, and the children he left behind.
Dr. Akanigha concluded by urging members of the Great Akanigha Family to continue to live in peace, uphold mutual respect, and remain disciplined in order to sustain the family’s long-standing legacy and unity.
